Stokes denies rift with McCullum, says relationship remains strong
8 reported
England cricket captain Ben Stokes has denied any rift with head coach Brendon McCullum following his one-match suspension for a curfew breach. Speaking to media for the first time since returning to the England fold, Stokes said the two remain close friends and that misconceptions about their relationship are unfounded. Stokes and bowler Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval after an incident in the early hours of June 8, the day after England’s victory at Lord’s. The ECB’s disciplinary process found “no blame” should be attached to the players, stating Atkinson was the “victim of unproved attacks” and Stokes was not involved in any altercations. Both players have been recalled for the third Test decider against New Zealand, starting Thursday, and have been issued written conduct warnings. Stokes also apologized to teammates, acknowledging the incident affected others including stand-in captain Joe Root and debutants.
What’s reported
Stokes denied any rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, calling it a “big misconception.”
Stokes said he and McCullum are “very good mates” and have a relationship beyond cricket.
Stokes and Gus Atkinson were suspended for the second Test after a curfew breach on June 8.
The ECB disciplinary process found “no blame” for the players regarding scuffles at a nightclub.
Atkinson was described as a “victim of unproved attacks” and Stokes was not involved in altercations.
Both players have been recalled for the third Test and issued written conduct warnings.
Stokes apologized to teammates, saying he took responsibility and looked everyone in the eye.
Stokes scored 95 runs for Durham against Northants during his absence from the England team.
Misconceptions
The article addresses the misconception that Stokes and McCullum have a strained relationship; Stokes stated they remain close.
Key figures
Ben Stokes, England captain
Brendon McCullum, England head coach
Gus Atkinson, England bowler
Joe Root, England batter and stand-in captain
James Rew, Jordan Cox, Sonny Baker, England debutants
Sources: Sky Sports
